BRITAIN:British prime minister Gordon Brown, often accused of being lukewarm towards the European Union, said yesterday it would be a mistake to question Britain's EU membership at a time of global economic problems.
Recent financial turbulence was "a wake-up call" for every economy, Mr Brown told an audience of business leaders.
He also urged the EU to focus on economic reform and to be open, flexible and outward-looking rather than protectionist.
Britain was well placed to withstand the global financial turbulence expected this year because of low inflation and interest rates and record high employment, Mr Brown said, adding public finances were "in a sustainable position".
Mr Brown said the EU must act immediately to protect against financial turbulence. He plans to host a meeting this month with French president Nicolas Sarkozy, German chancellor Dr Angela Merkel and Italian prime minister Romano Prodi to discuss stability measures.
"What is clear is that at this time of global economic uncertainty, we should not be throwing into question, as some would, the stability of our relationship with Europe and even putting into question, as some would, our future membership of the EU - risking trade, business and jobs.
"I strongly believe that rather than retreating to the sidelines, we must remain fully engaged in Europe so we can push forward the reforms that are essential for Europe's, and Britain's, economic future," he added.
Mr Brown's remarks were seen as a riposte to opposition Conservative leader David Cameron who on Sunday said he wanted Britain, rather than Brussels, to decide on its social and jobs policy and suggested a future Conservative government might try to reopen the Lisbon Treaty even if every state had ratified it.